The Truth About IUDs vs. Copper IUDs

& How to Restore Hormone Balance After Removal

If you're a woman navigating birth control choices or wondering how to support your body after removing an IUD, you're not alone.

In Utah and beyond, many women in their 20s to 40s are starting to ask deeper questions about how long-term contraceptive use affects their hormones, mood, energy, and overall health.

Let’s break down the differences between hormonal and copper IUDs, what kind of side effects you might not be hearing about at your annual visit, and how to support your body when it’s time to remove it.

IUD vs. Copper IUD: What’s the Difference?

There are two main types of intrauterine devices (IUDs):

  • Hormonal IUDs (brand names like Mirena, Liletta, Kyleena) release a synthetic form of progestin called levonorgestrel. This suppresses ovulation in some women and thickens cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg.

  • Copper IUDs (like Paragard) are hormone-free. The copper acts as a natural spermicide but allows your body to ovulate and maintain its natural hormonal rhythms.

At first glance, a copper IUD might seem like the “cleaner” option because it’s hormone-free, but both types come with considerations.

Common Side Effects and Hidden Impacts

Hormonal IUDs:

  • May cause spotting, mood swings, breast tenderness, and acne

  • Can suppress ovulation (meaning lower natural progesterone production)

  • Often leads to lighter or no periods, but that doesn’t necessarily mean hormonal balance

  • Associated in some cases with increased anxiety or depressive symptoms

Copper IUDs:

  • Can cause heavier periods and more intense cramping (especially in the first 6–12 months)

  • Copper can impact zinc balance and may contribute to inflammation if your detox pathways aren’t supported

  • Some women experience histamine-related symptoms (think rashes, bloating, or fatigue) that resolve after removal

Why IUDs Can Disrupt Hormone Balance

Even though hormonal IUDs deliver a “local” dose, the body is a network… nothing acts in isolation. Progestins don’t behave like your body’s natural progesterone. They bind differently to receptors and may suppress ovulation altogether, reducing your own hormone production.

When ovulation is suppressed, you don’t make enough progesterone, one of the key hormones responsible for restful sleep, stable mood, and a healthy menstrual cycle. This imbalance can lead to symptoms like:

  • Low libido

  • Weight gain or bloating

  • Fatigue

  • Short luteal phase (aka, trouble conceiving)

The copper IUD doesn’t interfere with hormone production in the same way, but many women are unaware of how copper and mineral balance affect things like estrogen metabolism and thyroid function.

Functional Support After IUD Removal

Whether you’ve just removed your IUD or are planning to, the transition can be bumpy without proper support. Here’s how a functional medicine approach can help you recalibrate:

1. Support Your Detox Pathways

Your liver and gut play a major role in hormone clearance. Post-IUD, you want to ensure you're:

  • Drinking 1/2 your body weight in ounces oz of filtered water daily

  • Getting 25–35g of fiber to bind excess hormones

  • Supporting liver detox with leafy greens, cruciferous veggies, and possibly targeted supplements

2. Track Your Cycle and Ovulation

Start using a fertility awareness method (FAM) to understand how your body is recalibrating post-IUD. You may not ovulate immediately after removal. Knowing your patterns helps guide your healing plan.

3. Rebuild Key Nutrients

Years on an IUD can deplete:

  • Zinc (needed for thyroid, immune, and hormone function)

  • Magnesium (for cortisol and cycle regulation)

  • B vitamins (especially B6 and folate)

Consider a high-quality multivitamin, mineral support, or targeted testing to identify deficiencies.

4. Test—Don’t Guess

If you’re experiencing fatigue, acne, mood swings, irregular cycles, or other issues post-IUD, functional lab testing (like DUTCH hormone testing or a blood panel) can give insight into what’s really going on. Many women are told their symptoms are "normal" when they're actually early warning signs of hormone dysfunction.

The Bottom Line

IUDs may be convenient, but they're not side-effect-free.

Whether you’ve experienced issues with your device or you're just ready for a more natural rhythm, it’s essential to support your body as it transitions. You deserve to feel empowered, informed, and supported.

Ready to support your hormones and feel like yourself again?


Book a free consultation and let’s create a personalized plan that works for your body… no guessing, no gaslighting, just real results.
👉 Book Now

Rachel Claire

I’m a functional medicine and holistic health coach who partners with a network of clinicians to provide lab testing, treatment plans, supplement protocols, and health coaching to those struggling with thyroid conditions, gastrointestinal problems, hormone concerns, and autoimmune conditions.

https://www.rachelclairehhc.com
Next
Next

Parasites: Do you need a cleanse?